Valuable frescoes in Rodengo Castle tell the story of Yvain, one of the Knights of the Round Table at the court of King Arthur
Where gentle green meadows meet the steep walls of the Rienza Gorge, lies Villa (Vill), the main village of Rodengo. It marks the southern end of the Rodengo high plateau. Things were not always as idyllic here as they are today: In 1688, part of the Parish Church of the Assumption of Mary collapsed into the gorge, including, according to local accounts, the area around the altar.
From the expertly secured cemetery wall, the view still plunges into the depths, while inside, the graceful building now features Gothic ribbed vaults. The rectory, with its Gothic sundial, garden, a wayside shrine, and an orchard, also forms a noteworthy ensemble. Opposite lies the high plateau of Maranza with the Monte Cuzzo, and right next to the church stands Rodengo Castle, which is open to visitors. It preserves one of the oldest secular fresco cycles in the German-speaking world.
The paintings tell the story of the court of King Arthur, the lady of the castle Laudine, with whom the knight Yvain falls in love, of tournaments and tragic events - colourful, grand, and worthy of an epic. The village centre has all the essential facilities, such as the information point, the community centre, the library, a bank, the town hall, the school, the fire station, and the inn.
From Villa, the natural landscape extends up to the Rodengo Alp, which is a rewarding destination at any time of year. The paths there are pleasant to walk: It is a classic summer retreat that also appeals in winter with its cross-country ski trails and winter paths. Due to its proximity to the Plose and the Gitschberg Jochtal Skiing Areas in the Valle Isarco, the slopes are also quickly accessible.
